The Australian Academy of Science has recognised two outstanding University of Sydney researchers in its annual honorific awards. 

Academy President Professor Chennupati Jagadish AC said the 23 awards announced today recognise scientists whose work delivers tangible benefits to society.

“Each of the researchers recognised represents the very best of Australian science, through the depth, rigour and impact of their work,” he said.

“From fundamental research to applied science, they improve lives, protect our environment, and help secure a better future for all Australians.” 

“These awards celebrate the University’s leading work in bone regeneration and harnessing the practical potential of peptides and proteins,” said University of Sydney Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Professor Mike Ryan. “They recognise the tenacity of researchers whose work is often years in the pipeline before its benefit to society is realised.”  

Associate Professor Yu Heng Lau, School of Chemistry

The Le Fèvre Medal for research in chemistry recognises outstanding basic research in chemistry by early career postdoctoral researchers. 

This year’s recipient, Associate Professor Yu Heng Lau leads the University’s Laboratory of Chemical and Synthetic Biology in the School of Chemistry. His research team in the Faculty of Science combines organic chemistry and synthetic biology to control the architecture of natural proteins and peptides to enable the creation of new medicines and catalysts.

Peptides and proteins are naturally occurring molecules governing the most important processes in life, from DNA replication in cells to photosynthesis in plants. As a chemical biologist, Associate Professor Lau has discovered how to manipulate these molecules using synthetic techniques. This process unlocks their potential for treating disease and improving sustainability. 

Associate Professor Lau’s team has developed the first peptide-based therapeutic candidates for treating childhood bone cancers by targeting a novel pathway known as the Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT). It has also made fundamental discoveries on the structure and assembly of cage-forming proteins known as encapsulins, now being developed as tools for improving photosynthesis in crops.